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Having small dogs open up to a higher risk of dental issues; that is why if you have a Toy Poodle; you take extra measures of keeping their dental health maintained and at its peak and optimum; well condition. In this article, you’ll learn all about dental health for your toy poodle.
Why is Dog Dental Care Important?
Dogs are susceptible to developing tartar, plaque build-up, alongside gingivitis. Moreover, it is not just bad breath and their teeth being yellow you have to worry about. These canine dental problems can actually lead to your pooch having life-threatening infections; as well as issues concerning their heart, liver; and kidney.
To amplify and further make a point; the cost of dental extractions to remove teeth that are beyond fixation can cost from $10/tooth for doing a simple extraction; or spending more than $1000 for giving your canine a molar root canal. That is why it is really vital that you take good care of your pooch’s dental health.
Ways on How to better your dog’s dental health
Brush their teeth early, and do this often
Canine toothbrush, is a little strategy, is all you need for this crucial first step. The best brush you must use is a double-headed brush with its brushes residing at a 45-degree angle to clean below your dog’s gum line. This is helpful for securing holistic tooth brushing.
Your dog might also not love this at first, but hopefully, you can make it a pleasant; or bonding experience for the both of you. You might want to consider choosing a time when your toy poodle has had a decent amount of exercise; so he will be thrilled in sitting still for the procedure. Don’t overdo it the first few attempts. You must gradually start slow and quit if your canine gets agitated. A great tip is to also increase the time every day; as it more and more becomes a second nature of habit. Make sure to speak soothingly and pleasantly to your dog during the procedure, and reward your very own with treats.
Schedule regular cleanings
Maintaining your dog’s oral health greatly depends on scheduling their regular veterinary dentist examinations and cleanings. It is important to note that about 80% of dogs over the age of three start to develop a significant periodontal disease that requires treatment. Regular cleanings will help you in making sure your dog will not acquire any infections and health challenges, moreover, it is really a prerequisite and not a luxury to be given to pets.
Feed your pet appropriately
Dry foods are ten times better for your toy poodle’s dental health, this is when compared to soft foods. Crunchy kibbles, apparently, is better for canine’s health because it scrapes away tartar as your pooch indulges in eating it. Soft food, on the other hand, is more likely to stick on a canine’s teeth, causing plaque to build up, and it is rather quick thus accelerating decay.
There are veterinarians that also offer a special dental diet for extra vulnerable dogs. There also exist specialized dental kibbles for dogs that aim to provide better cleaning as the dog eats.
Give chew toys to your dog, as well as treats that promotes dental care
There are many dog treats existing in the market and are crafted to keep your dog’s teeth as well as gums cleaner. For toys, it is always a great idea to lean on non-abrasive balls and chew toys that are sealed with VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council). Opt on giving your dog synthetic bones that are designed to strengthen your dog’s gum and teeth.
Consider Dental Rinses
Dental rinses together with water additives are helpful for your dog’s oral health as it is designed to complement traditional tooth brushing. It contains healthful enzymes and other supplemental ingredients that ought to fight plaque and bacteria build-up. Moreover, it secures that your very own toy poodle has a long-lasting fresh breath.
Sings That You Must Already Seek Veterinarian Help
Whether you brush your dog’s teeth or not, you still must pay a check-up on their mouth every week or so. Below are signs of dental problems that suggests you to already sought medical assistance:
- Bad breath
- Change in eating or dog chewing habits
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Depression
- Excessive drooling
- Misaligned or missing teeth
- Discolored, broken, missing, or crooked teeth
- Red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums
- Yellowish-brown tartar crust along the gum line
- Bumps or growths within the mouth
Conclusion
As stated above, the treatment surrounding serious dental issues can get really costly and unbearable, but it will add more fuel to the fire if your pet’s overall wellbeing will be left unattended. Clean now and save yourself troubles for later. Dental care can be a hassle, especially for dogs, but all that it takes is proper maintenance. Take care of your dog’s health, as they will care for you, and it is done ten times better!